Morning Flurries, Afternoon Fifties: Minneapolis Braces for a Monday Weather Rollercoaster

A Tale of Two Seasons

Minneapolis residents are waking up to a stark reminder of March's volatility today, Monday, March 9, 2026. The city is currently navigating a complex weather pattern that transitions from a hazardous, wintry morning into an unexpectedly mild spring-like afternoon. Lead meteorologists have described the day as a meteorological rollercoaster, swinging from blizzard-like conditions in the early hours to temperatures nearly 20 degrees above the seasonal average by the drive home.

Morning: Wintry Hazards and High Winds

The day began under a Winter Weather Advisory issued by the National Weather Service. A potent weather system moving south from Canada brought a mix of light snow and high-velocity winds to the Twin Cities overnight. Early commuters faced difficult travel conditions due to northwest winds gusting between 40 and 55 mph. These strong gusts, combined with fresh snowfall, have led to blowing snow and reduced visibility across the metro area. Temperatures this morning are hovering near a chilly 35°F, though the wind chill factor makes it feel significantly colder.

Afternoon: A Rapid Warm-Up

As the morning system clears out, the forecast calls for a dramatic shift. By midday, the clouds are expected to thin, allowing for partly sunny intervals. This sunshine, paired with a shift in air mass, will trigger a rapid temperature climb. Highs this afternoon are predicted to reach between 53°F and 57°F—a sharp contrast to the morning’s icy start. While the blustery winds will begin to diminish, residents should still expect a breezy afternoon as the atmosphere stabilizes. The humidity is expected to drop to approximately 56%, making for a crisp but pleasant outdoor environment for those heading out after work.

Evening: Clouds Return and Cooling Off

As evening approaches, the sky will transition back to mostly cloudy conditions. Temperatures will settle into a more moderate range, with a projected evening low of 42°F. While the chance of precipitation remains low at around 10%, there is a slight possibility of isolated flurries or light snow showers late tonight as a secondary cold front begins to approach.

Travel Advisory and Safety

• Commuter Alert: While roads are expected to dry out by the afternoon, the morning commute remains hazardous. Drivers should watch for slick spots and be mindful of high-profile vehicles in the strong morning winds.
• Apparel Advice: The "onion" method of layering is highly recommended today. Residents will need heavy winter gear for the morning advisory period but will likely find themselves shedding layers by the afternoon peak.
• Property Safety: Secure any loose outdoor items or trash bins, as wind gusts will remain significant through the first half of the day.